Kidney damage often begins long before symptoms appear
Standard tests look for larger proteins in the urine, which usually show up once damage is under way. ILSC focuses on conditions where earlier warning could change outcomes.
Sickle cell disease
An inherited red blood cell disorder that affects many organs, with the kidneys among the most affected. Most cases occur in Sub-Saharan Africa, where costly treatments are out of reach for most families.
The only potential cure, a bone marrow transplant, is out of reach in most of the world. Early detection of complications is the best available path to better care, as the WHO's 2024 sickle cell guidance recognizes.
Preeclampsia
A leading cause of maternal death worldwide, defined by new high blood pressure and protein in the urine after the second trimester. It raises the long-term risk of chronic kidney disease.
Women with sickle cell disease face higher risk, and their warning signs are easier to miss.
Diabetes
Diabetes is rising fastest in Africa, and most cases in the region go undiagnosed. It is a leading cause of kidney disease worldwide.
ILSC's lab method was first validated using urine samples from diabetic patients.
Looking ahead: many conditions affect the kidneys. ILSC's approach is designed to extend to other diseases as research grows.